The BTS80 series of floor-concealed door closers is designed for both heavy-duty performance and specialized applications in architectural and safety-sensitive environments. The BTS80 EMB variant includes an electromagnetic hold-open feature that supports fire/life safety protocols and office functionality. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation and application guidelines for the BTS80 and BTS80 EMB series based on manufacturer specifications and supporting technical documentation.
Overview of BTS80 and BTS80 EMB Series
The BTS80 series is a line of floor-concealed door closers that can manage exceptionally heavy single- and double-acting doors. These closers are known for their durability and reliability under adverse climatic and traffic conditions, making them suitable for use in high-traffic or structurally demanding environments.
The BTS80 EMB variant introduces an electromagnetic hydraulic hold open feature. This allows the door to remain open at an angle between approximately 65° and 175°, until the electrical current is interrupted. At that point, the door will self-close. This functionality is particularly useful in fire/life safety applications, where the closer is electrically controlled by a fire alarm contact. The EMB model is also suitable for office environments where a user can activate a momentary switch near their desk to toggle between hold open and privacy modes.
Installation Considerations for BTS80 Series
While the primary focus of this article is on the BTS80 EMB variant, it is important to understand the general installation considerations for the entire BTS80 series. According to technical documentation, the BTS80 series is designed for integration into a wide range of door designs, accommodating various materials, sizes, and weights. Its trouble-free performance under adverse conditions makes it a dependable option for rigorous applications.
The installation of a BTS80 closer typically involves embedding the unit into the floor, ensuring that it is aligned with the door’s movement. Because these closers are floor-concealed, the installation must account for floor thickness, door alignment, and clearance space to allow for smooth operation. While the exact installation steps for the BTS80 are not provided in the available documentation, general principles of floor-concealed closer installation apply, including:
- Ensuring the floor opening is properly sized and shaped to accommodate the closer unit.
- Aligning the closer mechanism with the door’s pivot point or hinge line.
- Securing the closer unit using manufacturer-recommended fasteners.
- Testing the door's closing force and adjusting as necessary.
BTS80 EMB Installation and Configuration
The BTS80 EMB variant requires additional electrical integration due to its hold-open feature. The electromagnetic component must be connected to a power source and controlled by an external switch or system. The hold open function can be selectively engaged, allowing the door to remain open within the specified angular range until the power is interrupted.
The installation of the BTS80 EMB involves the following key steps:
Electrical Integration: Connect the closer to a power source using appropriate wiring. Ensure that the power supply is compatible with the closer’s specifications, typically requiring a low-voltage or standard line voltage input depending on the model.
Control Switch Installation: Install a maintained or momentary control switch that can toggle the hold open function. In fire/life safety applications, the switch is typically connected to a fire alarm system. In office environments, a switch may be mounted near the occupant’s desk or integrated into a wireless system.
Angle Adjustment: Adjust the closer mechanism to allow for the desired hold open range (65° to 175°). This is typically done using manufacturer-provided adjustment tools or by following calibration instructions included with the unit.
Testing and Calibration: After installation, test the closer to ensure that it responds correctly to power interruptions. The door should return to its closed position promptly when the hold open function is deactivated.
Safety Compliance: In fire/life safety applications, the installation must comply with local building codes and fire safety regulations. This includes ensuring that the closer is part of an approved fire alarm system and that it functions reliably during emergency conditions.
Application Scenarios for BTS80 EMB
The BTS80 EMB is designed for use in both safety-critical and office environments. In fire/life safety applications, the closer is typically integrated with a fire alarm system. The closer remains in the hold open position until a fire alarm is triggered, at which point the power is cut, and the door self-closes. This ensures that doors remain open during normal operations but can close automatically during emergencies to prevent the spread of fire or smoke.
In office settings, the BTS80 EMB can be used to provide a hold open/privacy function. A maintained control switch can be used to toggle between the two modes. For example, in a classroom or office environment, the hold open function can be used during setup or when occupants are entering and exiting the room between sessions. When privacy is needed, the switch can be turned off, allowing the door to close automatically and preventing accidental reopening.
Office Function and Wireless Integration
The BTS80 EMB offers additional flexibility in office environments by supporting both hard-wired and wireless control systems. In a typical office setup, the closer can be connected to a momentary switch located near the occupant’s desk. When the switch is engaged, the door remains in the hold open position, allowing for easy access. When the switch is disengaged, the closer returns to its normal operation, and the door can close automatically.
Wireless integration is also possible, allowing for remote activation of the hold open function. This can be particularly useful in larger office environments or in situations where multiple users need to control the door from different locations. Wireless systems must be configured according to manufacturer guidelines to ensure compatibility and reliability.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
While the BTS80 EMB is designed for long-term reliability, periodic maintenance is recommended to ensure continued performance. This includes checking the electrical connections for signs of wear or corrosion, verifying the hold open range, and testing the door’s closing force.
If the closer fails to respond to power interruptions or exhibits inconsistent behavior, the following troubleshooting steps can be performed:
- Check the power supply to ensure that the correct voltage is being delivered.
- Verify that the control switch is functioning correctly and is properly connected.
- Adjust the closer mechanism to ensure that it is operating within the intended range.
- Replace any damaged or worn components, such as electrical wiring or mechanical parts.
Safety and Compliance
In fire/life safety applications, the BTS80 EMB must be installed and maintained in accordance with local fire safety regulations. This includes ensuring that the closer is part of an approved fire alarm system and that it is capable of responding to emergency conditions as required by code.
Additionally, the closer must be installed in a manner that does not compromise the structural integrity of the door or its frame. This includes ensuring that the closer is properly embedded in the floor, that the door is aligned correctly, and that the closer is not subjected to excessive force or vibration that could affect its operation.
Conclusion
The BTS80 and BTS80 EMB series of floor-concealed door closers offer a versatile and reliable solution for both heavy-duty and safety-critical applications. The EMB variant, with its electromagnetic hold open feature, is particularly well-suited for environments where controlled access is required, such as offices, classrooms, or fire/life safety systems.
Installation of the BTS80 EMB involves careful electrical integration, control switch setup, and angle adjustment to ensure proper operation. The closer must be configured to respond to power interruptions and must be tested to ensure that it functions as intended.
By following manufacturer guidelines and adhering to safety and compliance standards, the BTS80 EMB can provide a reliable and secure door-closing solution for a wide range of applications.